As we began to address last week, we know from the clear prophecy of Scripture that the end of this age will be the hardest time the world has ever known. At the same time, we also know that it will be the most glorious for those who serve the Lord. For those who abide in the Lord, who have built their lives on His kingdom, there should be no fear of things to come. In fact, the hard times are birth pangs which will ultimately result in the birth of the kingdom of God on the earth. The...

As we discussed last week, joy and peace will become increasing hallmarks of those who are building their lives on the kingdom of God and living their lives in the kingdom. It will be by their peace and joy that true Christians will begin to be distinguished. As these grow in their lives, so will their love of God, their love for one another, and love for their neighbors. In a world of increasing fear and confusion, Christians will be going about casting out fear with the power of the love of God manifesting itself through them.

True...

The Lord did not come to preach the church, but the kingdom. He did not send His messengers to preach the church, but to preach the kingdom. However, the church is the messenger, and the vehicle for this message. It is also His bride, the queen that will rule with Him in the kingdom. Therefore, it is right for the messengers and ministries who God has sent to be devoted to building the church in order for there to be a vehicle for the kingdom message, and for the important purpose of the Lord having a worthy bride. However,...

Our perspective of the kingdom must be based on knowing the King. As I have contended that much of the biblical teachings on righteousness deal with stewardship, which is management, there is a sure biblical witness that the Lord cares deeply about this. It was this issue in the Parable of the Talents that determined which servants heard "Well done," and which heard "You wicked, lazy slave!" (see Matthew 25:21-26 NIV) That is how important being a good steward is. Whatever He has entrusted us with, we want to see it used to its maximum...

For the past few months we have been addressing the subject of our time, especially as we prepare the way for the kingdom by taking up the call to preach the gospel of the kingdom. As we see this present world collapsing into increasing discord and disorder, the kingdom will be marked by increasing peace and order. We must therefore order our own lives according to kingdom principles and be a demonstration of the kingdom. We will see an increasing contrast between the kingdoms of this world and the kingdom of God, and between the lives of those that...